Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 1
Michael Sobey
Liberty University School of Behavioral Science
COUC 506: Integration of Spirituality and Counseling
Dr. Timothy Williams
July 16th, 2023
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 2
SUMMARY
In Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity, Entwisle covers a number of
subjects regarding the integration of psychology and religious the religious belief system with a
focus on Christianity and the message of Christ. In chapters eight through eleven Entwisle
discusses integration and models used in the relationship between psychology and theology as
presented by Carter (1977). These models include six similar but distinctive blueprints for
integration: enemies, spies, colonialists, rebuilders, neutral parties, and allies (Entwistle, 2015).
When discussing the integration of psychology and theology Entwisle takes on a model-based
approach and is concerned with models based on models and how to understand the models that
have been constructed and what they represent.
In chapter eight Entwisle begins to lay the groundwork for models and integration by
presenting the six models used and explaining their functions with psychology and theology.
Within this, he clearly shows the function of each type of model and how an individual may
engage and work within them. The pros and cons of each model are clearly spelled out as how
they relate to operation as a psychologist, a theologian, or a mixture of both. Furthermore,
Entwisle shows the subsections of the models such as secular combatants and Christian
combatants within the enemies model (Entwistle, 2015). The difference between these two types
of enemies is that a secular combatant is rooted in the rejection of authority, such as religious
authority and a Christian combatant will be suspicious of human reason (Entwistle, 2015). Both
secular and Christian combatants see each other as the enemy and not compatible with their
theory. Entwisle makes sure to note that the American Psychological Association (APA) Code of
Ethics does recognize the need to respect a client’s religious beliefs; furthermore, the APA has set
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 3
up Division 36 which deals with research and the application of psychological methods and the
integration of religion and spirituality (Society for the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality
(Division 36), n.d.). It must be noted that the American Counseling Association affirms this as
well. Entwisle is sure to point out the conflict held within the six models when it comes to the
relationship between psychology and theology. Through this is clear that each model will view
this relationship in a different way and resolve the conflict in different ways. However, it must be
noted that some make models and those operating within them make take a hard stance and not
integrate the two within practice.
In chapter nine Entwisle discussed the “Enemies” model which is antagonistic by nature.
Within this model, we find that individuals will assume that psychology and religion are not
compatible with each other (Entwistle, 2015). As mentioned above, the enemies model has two
variants within the antagonistic relationship, secular combatant and Christian Combatant. Within
this model, there is a hard line drawn between the two types of enemies. Secular combatants will
reject theology in favor of psychology and Christian combatants will reject psychology in favor
of theology and religion (Entwistle, 2015). When discussing the enemies model, we can examine
Sigmond Freud and Albert Ellis. Both take a stance within being a secular combatant, with the
caveat that Freud did acknowledge that religious practice could contribute to positive
psychological outcomes. Theology and psychology are both sides of a single coin, whereas
religion and spirituality have been shown to produce barriers to emotional distress but it can also
be linked to the creation of emotional disturbance. Christian combatants on the other hand within
the enemies model will discount scientific and psychological approaches to the therapeutic
process. They believe that the Bible holds all the answers to emotional distress and any
challenges one may face throughout life. This in and of itself is a fallacy as it is like equating
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 4
prayer to chemotherapy and is strictly dependent on one’s interpretation of the message of the
Lord. Some Christian combatants will claim that the Bible contains all information relevant to
psychological health. An instance of this can be found in the Supreme Court case Nally vs. Grace
Community Church, where a man named Kenneth Nally took his life after seeking pastoral
counseling. The counseling Mr. Nally received was based solely on the pastor’s interpretation of
biblical concepts and did not employ any psychotherapeutic techniques. Those who engaged with
Mr. Nally were not trained properly and were operating outside of their competency and this
ultimately led to his suicide. Clearly, each variant within the enemies model takes a hardline
stance against the other and they do this to the detriment of the client.
Chapter ten shows the basis of intermediate models which include spies, colonialists,
rebuilders, and neutral parties. Spies engage in what can be described as theory espionage where
they take points from another theory and apply them to their preferred method; such as a secular
combatant using teachings of the church to apply to a religious patient and vice versa as it
pertains to a Christian combatant (Entwistle, 2015). Colonialists will declare their allegiance to
their preferred method, in this case, either secular or Christian combatant but will engage in the
other via their dominant preference (Entwistle, 2015). Rebuilders will use the Christian faith and
apply its teachings, ethics, and morals to the scientific basis of psychology (Entwistle, 2015).
Rebuilders will more so blend the two methods together in order to strengthen their basis and
form a more holistic approach to a faith-based application. Neutral Parties will not take a
hardline stance one way or another and will better integrate psychology and theology (Entwistle,
2015). However, this approach will reflect a more modernist approach and fail to understand the
holistic nature of the human condition. The intermediate models attempt to take the best of each
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 5
camp and apply it to the present. However, each model while attempting to be superior is not
without fault because they are still in competition to be the better model.
Chapter Eleven focuses on the Allies model which recognizes that psychology is a unique
field and may require input from a Christian perspective. The Allies model allows for parallel
theory and convictions (Entwistle, 2015). Entwisle goes in-depth regarding religious convictions
and the core belief systems. This shows that if we remember our root convictions, we can be
open to new ideas and methods. In an attempt to define integration, we clearly see conflict,
however, it is clear that integration is highly personal and subjective. It is clear that how
someone views their faith and its role in psychology differs from person to person as well as their
personal interpretations of their faith. The Allies model seems to be the most simplistic but
requires caution when jointly using psychological and faith-based methods together.
INTERACTION
When examining the full breadth of the four chapters we see that there is cause to call for
integration between a theologically based approach and a psychology-based approach when
entering a therapeutic relationship. It is clear to me that a good understanding of biblical
principles is needed if one is going to engage in the use of Christian thoughts and beliefs within
the therapeutic setting. It is also important that if one enters into a pastoral counseling role they
must also understand the psychological aspect and not just pontificate that the Bible is the end all
be all solution to issues.
First I want to address the fact that there exist hardliners within each camp be it those
who believe that psychology and the science behind it is the only method that should be used or
those who believe that the word of the Lord and the teachings of Christ are the only applicable
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 6
methods. Taking a hard stance one way or another is a huge fallacy and can lead to harm to the
client. The American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American Psychology Association
both have dedicated branches to ensure religious and spiritual competency. Furthermore, the
ACA code of ethics clearly spells out that a counselor must avoid harming their client and
imposing their values on them. This is particularly mentioned in Section A.4.b where counselors
must be respectful towards the diversity of their clients (ACA, 2014). To this point, when a
counselor enters into a therapeutic relationship with a client, they discount either the psychology
or theology they pose a clear risk of offending the diversity of the client unless specifically
informed by the client of their beliefs.
When we look at individuals taking a hard stance against the integration of theory I take
up the stance that this is not in the best interest of the client and may lead to ineffective
counseling and potential harm. Miller (2021) puts forward that spirituality and psychological
well-being are linked. In her findings Miller (2021) concludes that low levels of depressive
symptoms are related to high levels of personal devotion, personal devotion can serve as a barrier
against depressive symptoms, and that personal devotion decreases lifetime risk for addictive and
abusive behaviors. It must be noted that these findings are a correlation and not causation
(Miller, 2021). Clearly, there is evidence that religion and spirituality allow for a healthier
emotional state and create barriers to emotional disturbances, and this is why it must be taken
into account regardless of the counseling methods used.
When we examine most theories of counseling, we can see clear biblical principles within
them. Throughout my studies and practical application of methods, I have found that I am drawn
to the Adlerian theory. Within this theory, we see that the counselor works with the client to help
them build better interpersonal relationships, which one can find within a religious community as
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 7
well (Tan, 2022). The Adlerian theory does project biblical concepts such as being action-
oriented, this is echoed throughout the Bible where we are called to take steps within our faith
and throughout life to realize the best version of ourselves and live a more Christ-like life (Tan,
2022). Tan (2022) shows that the theories of counseling are all compatible in some ways with
biblical perspectives, but each is also incompatible in a way. A good counselor with a Christian
worldview should be able to bridge the gap between modern psychological concepts and theories
and their faith; as well as work with a diverse population.
After learning about the models used to integrate psychology and theology, I have
become more aware of how I would use religion and spirituality within a therapeutic
environment. However, I am also aware that I must become more versed in how to apply religion
and spirituality to those who would benefit from it. As a person with a Christian worldview, I
must also understand the views of clients may differ from mine, but nonetheless, I should do my
best to help them or take steps to ensure that they receive the proper help. It has become clear
that working with the client to discover their religious and spiritual beliefs is important as these
beliefs tend to hold a degree of sway over the thought process and actions of the client
(Integrating Spirituality and Religion Into Psychotherapy Practice | Society for the Advancement
of Psychotherapy, n.d.). These beliefs may also act as a moral and ethical compass for the client
and provide feedback to the counselor about their views on self-governance. This is important as
it provides feedback to the counselor on how to develop a treatment plan for the client, as well as
methods of care and theory to use (Tan, 2022 and Schwitzer, A. M., & Rubin, L. C. 2014).
Understanding religion and theology is just as important as understanding psychology as
a counselor. Being able to integrate both is equally important because as counselors we are called
to help others and if we discount their deeply held beliefs, we run the risk of being ineffective
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 8
and potentially causing harm to the client. Entwisle has shown us six models for integration and
has shown the strengths and weaknesses of each. By doing so it has become clear that integration
is important as long as it helps the client and does not pose potential harm. Of the six models I
believe that the allies model is the strongest because it allows for both psychology and theology
to work hand in hand to help the client and it does not discount the role each holds. It is an
absolute fallacy to discount either method because each has a place within the counseling
relationship.
APPLY
When working within a professional counseling setting the application of integration is
important. Counselors must be aware of their clients to build a strong therapeutic alliance and to
be able to genially show empathy and understanding. Within my current professional setting, I
encounter individuals who grew up within the Christian faith but have different beliefs within it.
I am Roman Catholic which has similar but also different views of faith from protestant faiths.
So if I were to engage in a therapeutic relationship with someone of another faith I would ask
them about their faith, their beliefs, and their faith rituals. By understanding the client’s religious
and spiritual beliefs the counselor can better glean an understanding of how the client views the
world and by proxy how they view suffering and challenges.
Within the models put forward by Entwisle, the only one I see as viable and in alignment
with my views at this point is the allies model. This model would allow for the best integration
of psychology and theology within a therapeutic relationship. Some clients may heavily depend
on their faith to glean an understanding of their situation and their emotions, while others could
place little capital on it and prefer a more direct counseling theory to work through their issues.
Entwistle’s models as a whole should not be discounted, they all hold strengths and weaknesses.
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3 9
I have said prior in this paper that the way individuals view faith is subject to individual
interpretation. The same holds true for Entwistle’s models, whereas the application of one over
another may be beneficial to the client.
When operating within the framework of Entwistle’s models as within any model it is
important to operate within the confines of the ACA code of ethics. Before we begin to apply
these models we must ensure that we have the competency to handle counseling with a Christian
worldview and that we are willing to accept that our clients may not accept the same views on
faith as we do. We must also ensure that we do not project our views, morals, or ethics on our
clients (ACA, 2014).
In the grand scheme of counseling and the models of integration, no one model may be
the absolute, but I believe that the allies model is the most correct for a counselor with a
Christian worldview. It has been shown that the integration of faith and spirituality can act as a
barrier to emotional distress and can help bridge the gap between theory and personal
convictions. When it comes to the practical application of these models it is important to first
apply the ACA code of ethics so as to not offend or harm the client. By integrating psychology
and theology properly it is clear that we will see positive results with our clients.
REFERENCES
Entwistle Review Assignment Week 3
10
ACA Code of Ethics (2014). Retrieved 10 JULY 2023, from https://www.counseling.org/resources/aca-
code-of-ethics.pdf
Carter, J. P. (1977). Secular and sacred models of psychology and religion. Journal of Psychology and
Theology, 5(3), 197–208. https://doi.org/10.1177/009164717700500302
Entwistle, D. N. (2015). Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity, third edition.
Integrating Spirituality and Religion into Psychotherapy Practice | Society for the Advancement of
Psychotherapy. (n.d.). https://societyforpsychotherapy.org/integrating-spirituality-religion-
psychotherapy-practice/#:~:text=Integrating%20religious%20and%20spiritual%20themes
%20into%20psychotherapy%20may%20range%20from,such%20as%20meditation%20or
%20prayer.
Miller, L. (2021). The awakened brain: The Psychology of Spirituality and Our Search for Meaning.
Penguin UK.
Schwitzer, A. M., & Rubin, L. C. (2014). Diagnosis and Treatment Planning Skills: A Popular
Culture Casebook Approach (DSM-5 Update). SAGE Publications, Incorporated.
Society for the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality (Division 36). (n.d.). https://www.apa.org.
https://www.apa.org/about/division/div36
Tan, S. (2022). Counseling and psychotherapy: A Christian Perspective. Baker Academic.
